Hit and Run Attorney in Jefferson

Hit and Run Cases of Leaving the Scene of an Accident

Under Ohio law, every driver must stop at the site of an accident and share information about what happened with the police. When a driver flees the scene of an accident where people have been injured, they could face felony charges. Being charged with operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol—an OVI—is already a serious matter. Add hit and run charges on top of that, and the offender may be looking at severe consequences, including lengthy jail time and substantial fines. A long driver’s license suspension is also a real possibility.

If you or someone you love is caught in this situation and now faces hit and run charges alongside a DUI case, you will need professional legal support. Reaching out to a dedicated Jefferson Ohio criminal lawyer at Youngstown Criminal Law Group is a smart move. We provide complete assistance and build a strong defense tailored to your case. If you have left the scene after an accident, do not wait—come to us right away for help.

Charges for Leaving the Scene of an Accident in Ohio

Three statutes under Chapter 4549 of the Ohio Revised Code govern a driver’s duty to stop at the scene of an accident. These statutes are:

• Stopping after an accident on public roads or highways — Ohio Revised Code § 4549.02;
• Stopping after an accident on roads other than public roads or highways — Ohio Revised Code § 4549.021; and
• Stopping after an accident involving damage to realty or personal property attached to real property — Ohio Revised Code § 4549.03.

When an accident happens, the driver is required to remain on the scene. An accident can result in personal injury as well as property damage. The driver must stop immediately and stay until they can share the relevant details with the other motorist or any police officer. A seasoned Jefferson Ohio OVI attorney can explain exactly what these obligations mean for you. These details include:

• The driver’s name and address
• The name of the vehicle’s owner, if the driver is not the owner
• The motor vehicle’s registration number

The person entitled to receive these details can be anyone injured in the accident, the operator, owner, or occupant of the property, or any police officer on duty in the area.

The driver also bears the responsibility of locating the owner, occupant, or operator of the affected property—whether a car, a house, or something else—and reporting the incident to them. At the same time, the driver must share the details listed above.

If you find yourself in this position and cannot locate the property or asset owner, your next step should be to report the incident to the nearest police department in the area where it occurred. A capable Jefferson Ohio criminal lawyer can help you handle the reporting process correctly.

While doing this, it pays to keep a trusted attorney’s number close at hand. That way, you can report the incident and get immediate legal advice. When you need guidance, turn to the Youngstown Criminal Law Group.

The nature of the injuries determines how the crime is classified:

• If the accident causes no injury, it is a first-degree misdemeanor
• If the accident causes serious injuries or physical harm, it becomes a fifth-degree felony
• If the accident causes death, it is a third-degree felony

Consult With a Jefferson Criminal Lawyer

If you have fled the scene of an accident for any reason and need a Jefferson Ohio OVI attorney to defend your case, come to the Youngstown Criminal Law Group. We will listen carefully to your story and work to secure relief from the charges or the lightest possible penalties. For more details or to schedule an appointment, contact us today at (330) 791-8104.